Exmouth RNLI called to rescue paddleboarders
Exmouth RNLI volunteer crew members launched today to rescue two paddleboarders needing help in the sea off the Exmouth coastline.
At 2.22pm today Tuesday 30 March 2021 the Exmouth RNLI Inshore Lifeboat D-805 George Bearman II was tasked by H.M. Coastguard to a report of two female paddleboarders who had become distressed some distance from the shore and found themselves unable to make progress.
The lifeboat, crewed by Helm, Guy Munnings, and RNLI volunteer crew Mark Cockman and Ed Steele launched at 2.35pm and was able to quickly locate the first casualty by the green marker buoy. The second was reportedly located off Orcombe Point.
The first paddleboarder was located at 2.46pm and taken on board the inshore lifeboat. En route to the second casualty the lifeboat crew were informed that she had self recovered and was ashore. The single casualty was then taken on the lifeboat to the safety of Exmouth Marina area. Both casualties were later assessed, found to be uninjured and did not require medical treatment.
The lifeboat was refuelled and back ready for service shortly afterwards.
Helm, Guy Munnings said, “The two casualties had got into a situation where they couldn’t make progress and were out to sea. It’s always wise to check the sea conditions and I would urge anyone going on the water to always check the locality, weather and tides before venturing out and to carry appropriate safety equipment. Myself and my crew were pleased to be assist in this emergency and ensure both casualties were safe and well.”
RNLI advice for paddleboarders can be found here :
https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/stand-up-paddle-boarding
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The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.
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